Ford EcoBoost V6 Engine Recall: A Class Action Lawsuit Unveils Defective Valves

Ford is facing a class action lawsuit over its EcoBoost V6 engines, alleging that the intake valves in 2.7L and 3.0L engines are prone to cracking and breaking. This has led to a federal investigation and a recall. Vehicles affected include the 2021-2022 Ford Bronco, F-150, Edge, Explorer, Lincoln Nautilus, and Aviator. The lawsuit claims that Ford did not adequately warn consumers about these issues before purchase, leading to overpayment for defective vehicles. An extended warranty and recall have been issued to address the problem.

Ford EcoBoost V6 Engine Recall: A Class Action Lawsuit Unveils Defective Valves
In recent months, Ford has been at the center of a significant controversy involving its EcoBoost V6 engines. A class action lawsuit filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan alleges that the intake valves in the 2.7L and 3.0L EcoBoost engines are defective, prone to cracking and breaking. This issue has led to a federal investigation and a recall affecting multiple Ford and Lincoln models.

The Affected Vehicles

The recall includes several high-profile models:
2021-2022 Ford Bronco
2021-2022 Ford F-150
2021-2022 Ford Edge
2021-2022 Ford Explorer
2021-2022 Lincoln Nautilus
2021-2022 Lincoln Aviator

The Investigation

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) initially opened a formal investigation into complaints about alleged valve problems in 2021 Ford Broncos equipped with 2.7L EcoBoost engines. The investigation was later expanded to include other models and engine sizes, including the 3.0L engines. In December 2024, NHTSA closed the investigation based on an extended warranty and a recall.

The Recall

Ford dealers are required to test the EcoBoost engines and replace them if necessary. The recall includes an extended warranty for 10 years or 150,000 miles, as part of customer satisfaction campaign 24N12. However, the plaintiffs in the class action lawsuit argue that Ford has yet to provide an adequate remedy, such as a replacement of their defective valves, or compensate consumers for the amount they overpaid for these defective vehicles.

The Class Action Lawsuit

The class action lawsuit was filed by Pennsylvania plaintiff Matthew Barkus, who owns a 2021 Ford F-150 equipped with a 2.7L EcoBoost engine, and New York plaintiff Dan Silberman, who owns a 2021 Ford Bronco equipped with a 2.7L EcoBoost engine. Both plaintiffs contend that Ford did not warn them about the EcoBoost engine problems before they purchased the vehicles. The lawsuit seeks more than \$;5 million in damages.

Conclusion

The Ford EcoBoost V6 engine recall is a significant issue that highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in the automotive industry. As consumers, it is crucial to stay informed about potential defects in our vehicles and to seek justice when necessary. The ongoing class action lawsuit against Ford serves as a reminder that manufacturers must prioritize the safety and reliability of their products.

1. What are the specific models affected by the Ford EcoBoost V6 engine recall?
   The affected models include the 2021-2022 Ford Bronco, F-150, Edge, Explorer, Lincoln Nautilus, and Aviator.
2. What is the nature of the defect in the EcoBoost V6 engines?
   The defect involves cracked and broken intake valves, particularly in the 2.7L and 3.0L engines.

3. Why did NHTSA close the investigation in December 2024?
   NHTSA closed the investigation based on an extended warranty and a recall issued by Ford.

4. What is the extended warranty offered by Ford as part of the recall?
   The extended warranty covers 10 years or 150,000 miles, as part of customer satisfaction campaign 24N12.

5. Who are the plaintiffs in the class action lawsuit against Ford?
   The plaintiffs are Matthew Barkus from Pennsylvania and Dan Silberman from New York.

6. What is the total amount of damages sought in the class action lawsuit?
   The lawsuit seeks more than \$;5 million in damages.

7. Have any of the plaintiffs experienced engine problems with their vehicles?
   No, neither plaintiff has experienced engine problems with their vehicles, but they claim they would not have purchased the vehicles or would have paid less if they had known about the issues.

8. What is the process for Ford dealers to address the recall?
   Ford dealers are required to test the EcoBoost engines and replace them if necessary.

9. Is there any ongoing compensation for consumers who overpaid for defective vehicles?
   The plaintiffs argue that Ford has yet to provide adequate compensation for the amount they overpaid for these defective vehicles.

10. What are the implications of this recall for Ford’s reputation and customer trust?
    The recall and ongoing lawsuit could impact Ford’s reputation and customer trust, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in addressing product defects.

The Ford EcoBoost V6 engine recall is a critical issue that underscores the importance of manufacturer accountability and consumer protection. The class action lawsuit highlights the need for transparency in product safety and the consequences of failing to inform consumers about potential defects. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, it is essential for manufacturers to prioritize reliability and safety, ensuring that consumers receive accurate information about their vehicles. The ongoing legal battle serves as a reminder that consumers deserve justice and compensation when their trust is breached.